Which of the following statements about Photochemical Smog is/are corr

Which of the following statements about Photochemical Smog is/are correct ?

  • 1. It irritates the eyes.
  • 2. It leads to cracking of rubber.
  • 3. It causes considerable damage to plant life.

Select the answer using the code given below :

1, 2 and 3
2 and 3 only
1 and 2 only
3 only
This question was previously asked in
UPSC Geoscientist – 2024
Photochemical smog is a type of air pollution that forms when sunlight reacts with nitrogen oxides and at least one volatile organic compound (VOC) in the atmosphere. It is a complex mixture containing various pollutants, including ozone (O₃), peroxyacetyl nitrates (PANs), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), and aldehydes.
Statement 1: Ozone and PANs are known irritants that affect the eyes and respiratory system.
Statement 2: Ozone is a strong oxidant that can cause the cracking and degradation of rubber and plastics.
Statement 3: Ozone and PANs are toxic to plants, damaging leaves, reducing growth, and affecting crop yields.
Photochemical smog is distinct from classical smog (sulfurous smog), which is primarily caused by sulfur dioxide and particulate matter from burning coal. It is typically associated with urban areas with high vehicular traffic and warm, sunny conditions.